As the pandemic began, the doors to Access Builds Children were forced to close for the multi-family visits. Our Board of Directors worked feverishly to identify and implement an alternative option for visits. We then began calculating how long our emergency funds would allow us to continue. Additionally, we quickly realized the fear our parents were harboring as jobs dissolved and finances were quickly depleting.

Almost as quickly as our doors were closed for visits, our team sought a resolution in offering virtual visits. This option allowed more frequent contact for the visiting parent and child. Moreover, this option proved to be extremely convenient for the residential parent. The setbacks included a shorter duration for the visits and the inability to hug and kiss the children. However, despite the setbacks, parents were elated to see their children and accepted the temporary substitution.

Thankfully the majority of our organization is comprised of volunteers, therefore our funds would cover overhead expenses and the limited staff, so long as our community returns to “normal” by fall. Our primary concern then shifted and resonated with the unemployment that was ravaging the families we serve.

We applied for a CDBG grant with a goal to reduce future fees in order to increase and expand services. We began contemplating alternative options for allocating funds, should we be approved, to cover fees for the existing families. With Commissioner Meador’s unexpected, generous donation, our families will be afforded opportunities for staying together, free of interruption. We can assure our children that we are here to keep their family together. Commissioner Meador has given the families hope and security!

Commissioner Meador truly is an angel watching over our entire community and keeping the needs of our families at the top of his agenda. His abundant generosity and compassion for others reveals his meaningful goal to save our children. Thank you Commissioner Meador, from all of us at Access Builds Children, for keeping these families together, loving our children, and for serving our county with your inspiring leadership.